Commercial product routing system with video vending capability

ABSTRACT

A traffic control system selectively interfaces members of plural groups, as buyer groups and vendor groups, for video communication through a dial-up telephone system, for analyzing and compiling data, scheduling appointments, implementing conferences, consummating sales and the like. The traffick-control system comprises a telephonic interface apparatus for interfacing remote telephonic terminals of the dial-up telephone system identified with the members of plural groups, a video recording unit for recording and playing video transcriptions, a storage memory for storing data on the members, including telephonic terminal numbers and area-of-interest codes and a control computer to selectively interconnect the video recording unit with the remote telephone terminals through the telephonic interface apparatus to record and receive video communication.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/505,913,entitled “COMMERCIAL PRODUCT ROUTING SYSTEM WITH VIDEO VENDINGCAPABILITY” and filed on Feb. 17, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,835,508,which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 08/189,405, entitled“COMMERCIAL PRODUCT ROUTING SYSTEM WITH VIDEO VENDING CAPABILITY” andfiled on Jan. 27, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,323,894, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/154,313, entitled“SCHEDULING AND PROCESSING SYSTEM FOR TELEPHONE VIDEO COMMUNICATION” andfiled on Nov. 17, 1993, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,284, which is acontinuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 08/067,783,entitled “VIDEOPHONE SYSTEM FOR SCRUTINY MONITORING WITH COMPUTERCONTROL” and filed on May 25, 1993, now abandoned, which is acontinuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 08/031,235,entitled “VIDEOPHONE SYSTEM FOR SCRUTINY MONITORING WITH COMPUTERCONTROL” and filed on Mar. 12, 1993, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,708. Thesubject matter in all the above-identified co-pending and commonly ownedapplications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of computerizedtelephone and video communication, and more particularly, to acommunication traffic control system for providing video communicationthrough a dial-up telephone system, for selectively interfacing membersof plural groups, for example, wholesale buyer groups and vendor groups.Such a system may be used in a variety of applications, such as fordirecting and exchanging offers and responses at the wholesale level,between selective members of plural groups, for analyzing and compilingdata, scheduling and implementing conferences, consummating sales andthe like. It is currently contemplated that the present invention may beused, for example, in merchandising applications, including purchasing,selling, marketing or the like, educational conventions for medicaldoctors and other professionals, game shows, dating services and so on.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Over the years, integration of computer and telephone technologies hasbrought many advances in the telecommunication industry. Functionallyintegrating human operators with telephone network capabilities, voiceand data switching capabilities, computer applications and databases,and voice processing technology not only provides human operators withimmediate access to information from a wide variety of sources, butallows them to intelligently process each call as well. Telephoneswitches are linked with computers to coordinate computer informationand intelligence with call handling capabilities to automatically addrelevant data, as well as facsimile, graphics, video or audiocommunication capabilities. Select services or equipment such asautomatic number identification (ANI) or dialed number identificationservice (DNIS) enhance calls and human capabilities by forwardingidentifying information preceding a telephone call, thereby, eliminatingsteps otherwise performed by people to capture information regarding thecaller. For applications involving large scale processing of calls,switch and host databases automatically link calls with a caller'srecord, eliminating the need for the caller to enter an identificationnumber when using a voice response system.

More revolutionary applications use ANI to simultaneously pass both thecall and the caller's current record to an operator's telephone andterminal. This obviates the need for a person to obtain, enter andreceive the caller's record from the database. Such advances haveimmensely enhanced human capabilities for communication, datamanipulation and control functions.

Somewhat concurrently, rapid developments in computer, telephone andvideo technologies have introduced the concept of visual communicationsor video conferencing. In particular, efforts at integrating thesetechnologies have gained enormous momentum in recent years, resulting,in part, from a general desire in all industries to conserve time andexpenses, and thereby, maximize human efficiency and productivity. Theadvent of videophones has enabled users to visually communicate fromremote locations. Many industries are rapidly embracing the idea ofvideo conferencing or visual communication to eliminate escalatingtravel expenses. Employees or customers in different places can takepart in interactive training sessions or seminars with no loss of timefor travel.

However, obstacles remain, particularly in traditional areas ofcumbersome communication. Still, with developments, virtually everyindustry segment can profit from interactive data sharing in real timewith the added advantage of face-to-face communication. Innovativetechnical advances are fast satisfying promises of enhancedcapabilities, thereby, allowing users to share and manipulate imagesfrom remote locations, such as pictures, graphs, maps or the like.

Technical breakthroughs in audio and video compression technology makedesktop video conferencing and visual communication both economical andpractical for everyday business communications. To fully participate invideo conferencing, the user's equipment must communicate with similarunits, albeit, from different equipment vendors. The InternationalTelephone and Telegraph Consultative Committee (CCITT) has defined astandard called H.261 (or “Px64”) detailing how video and audio signalsare compressed and decompressed for transmission across a common link.At present, no one industry standard and format has been adopted forvideo conferencing systems. Thus, the systems available on the marketare not always compatible. As a consequence, many different types ofvideo codecs (coders/decoders) are currently in use. For example, theAT&T AVP CODEC is a three-chip set that digitally processes highquality, full motion video images and sounds that are compatible withthe latest videoconferencing standards.

At any rate, ongoing efforts at achieving compatibility and providingcompression schemes that can transmit color images over POTS (plain oldtelephone system) all over the world are in the offing. Approaches forincorporating live-action, color video with standard voice telephonelines via networks and modems are currently being introduced. By using asuitable video capture board and a modem, live video may be received anddisplayed on any 386 or 486 personal computer running MicrosoftWindows™. The frame rate depends upon the type of display and type ofcommunication hardware. For example, over a normal dial-up telephoneline, a computer with a VGA (video graphics array) display set at 32,000colors, a 486 CPU and a 14.4 kbs (thousand bits per second) modem canachieve a frame rate of 5 frames per second. The link between thepersonal computers can be established in several ways, for example, by amodem, LAN (local area network), serial port and other high speeddigital links.

To consider an example of cumbersome communication in the merchandisingindustry, wholesale vendors or sellers of goods typically spend manyhours attempting to schedule appointments with various buyers fordifferent organizations, travelling to and from the buyers' facilities,and waiting for meetings, which may sometimes last only a shortduration. Unfortunately, considerably more time and expense is incurred,in travelling to and from different facilities, than is desirable.Moreover, as a practical matter, specific vendor sales people aretypically assigned to merchandise specific goods and interact withspecific buyers, resulting in a need for more vendor personnel dedicatedto particular buyers.

Moreover, in the event a specific seller wishes to broadcast a specialoffering of a particular item to plural buyers, for example, to disposeof an inventory of distressed items, the seller must undertakeconsiderable effort, such as place an advertisement or otherwiseinitiate contact with buyers. An advertisement is likely to be viewedonly by random buyers, thus, not always proving to be a reliable methodof soliciting offers from all possible buyers. Moreover, initiatingindividual contact with a series of buyers, until eventually securing afinal sale, constitutes an arduous task. Similarly, in situations wherea buyer wishes to solicit proposals from vendors for a particular item,the same practice prevails.

Accordingly, the present invention recognizes the need for a system tocommunicate with remote locations over a widely distributed area, fromother places, such as a central location, for the applications discussedabove as well as many other diverse applications with similarrequirements. In particular, the present system recognizes the need fordirecting and exchanging communications, such as offers and responses,between select members of plural groups or sub-groups, analyzing andcompiling data relating to such members, scheduling appointments,implementing face-to-face conferences (in real-time), and consummatingtransactions and billing relating to transactions between such groups.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Generally, the system of the present invention involves trafficregulation and control for video communication between a plurality ofremote, widely distributed locations, from a central unit, utilizingdial-up telephone facilities in today's computer environment, and withvoice quality lines. Specifically, for example, the dynamic graphics oftelephonic video (on standard analog lines and digital lines overIntegrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)) facilitate videophone, whilevideo still displays and digital lines facilitate high fidelity (hi-fi)video displays along with audio capabilities, all combined with theinteractive capability of computers to attain an effective commercialproduct routing system with video vending capability.

The system of the present invention contemplates applications rangingfrom merchandising (including purchasing, selling, marketing or thelike) to educational conventions for medical doctors and otherprofessionals, game shows, dating services and so on. The present systemis configured to direct and exchange communication traffic, for example,in the form of offers and responses, between selective members of pluralgroups or sub-groups, such as vendors and buyers, for analyzing andcompiling data, scheduling appointments and implementing visualconferences, consummating transactions and the like. Selective routingof communication traffic from a central unit or controlled by thecentral unit effectively prevents information overload.

In one disclosed embodiment of the present invention, personal computersequipped with capabilities for providing either analog video (analogmotion and analog high resolution freeze frame) or digital video orboth, and speakerphones (or regular telephone instruments), for one-wayor two-way communication are placed at each of a plurality of remotelocations to communicate with a central unit that may include severalcommunication and control stations also equipped with some or all of thesame capabilities. As a part of traffic control operations, a videodisplay (depicting motion and color) may be provided with graphics,audio and data signals, at each communication and control station, aswell as, the remote locations. The personal computers may utilize wellknown image enhancement techniques to facilitate high resolution imagesfor closer observation.

In accordance with one exemplary embodiment related to wholesalemerchandising, a telephonic interface appointment scheduling and routingsystem includes a central traffic control system, independently managedby a third party and located remote from all vendors' and buyers'facilities. The central traffic control system schedules appointmentsand routes offers and responses to and from select members of pluralgroups, such as buyers and vendors, to expedite traditionally complexpurchasing operations. Routing of offers and responses may also takeplace between members of sub-groups of plural groups. Calls may beclassified into types, for example, a vendor with a special offering, abuyer responding to a special offering, a buyer soliciting proposals, avendor responding with a proposal and a vendor or a buyer seeking anappointment. Calls of the various types may involve some form ofqualification or approval. For example, access to the system may belimited to qualified or registered entities. Also, certain limitationsmay be imposed, such as calls revealing one vendor's proposal to acompetitor are inhibited.

In accordance with an example, a vendor may wish to broadcast a specialoffering of a particular item to interested buyers. The routing systemanalyzes buyer data, typically acquired during registration, andcompiles a list of buyers to whom the broadcast is transmitted. Specialbuyers may be specified by the vendors making the special offering. Forexample, a vendor may designate special buyers from a list of allparticipating buyers and vendors provided to each registered member.From time to time, periodic updates on new members may be circulated.

To facilitate equitable routing of special offerings to all interestedbuyers, in situations, where there are only a limited number ofcommunication lines, the routing system may include a random numbergenerator to randomly select subsets of buyers and may transmit thebroadcast in sequence to each subset. In some situations, the routingsystem may have the capability to request and add additionalcommunication lines in the event a caller (vendor or buyer) desiresconcurrent broadcast to all potential receiving parties. Of course, insuch cases the caller would incur the additional charges. A numberingsystem may also be adopted, whereby broadcasts are transmitted tosubsets of a designated number of buyers (for example, equal to thenumber of communication lines) in rotating sequence. For example, aparticular special offering may be broadcast first to subset number one,then subset number two and so on, while the next special offering may bebroadcast first to subset number two, then subset number three and soon. A video recording of the offered item may be stored in a video fileserver at the central location, thus, allowing interested buyers to viewthe item prior to making a purchase. Likewise, buyers may wish tosolicit proposals for a particular item from vendors qualified fordesignated merchandise. Communication between the routing system and thedifferent buyers and vendors may be accomplished in a variety of ways,as for example, by electronic-mail (transmission of messages across anetwork between two desktop PCs), electronic bulletin boards, on-linecomputer services (such as Prodigy® or CompuServe®), facsimile,voice-mail or the like.

Vendors and buyers may directly communicate with the central trafficcontrol system to seek or change appointments and update informationwith respect to appointments with specific buyers. In accordance withone scenario, vendors may call the central traffic control system and,upon qualification, schedule appointments with specific buyers.

Appointments may be executed, on command, from a buyer location or thecentral traffic control system. Communication may be initiatedconforming to the display capabilities at the vendor site. That is, asdisclosed, the central traffic control system or alternatively, pluralcoordinated such systems (located at one site or plural sites), as wellas, the buyer locations, incorporate multiple video format capabilitiesalong with a bridge or switch unit to drive a display unit or monitor ina selected format in accordance with the capabilities of the currentvendor. As disclosed, a single monitor may accommodate several formatsor plural monitors can operate selectively for concurrent multipledisplays.

A sequence of scheduled appointments may be developed, as programmedalong with intervals of video communication. A record of the scheduledappointments is maintained by the central traffic control system.

At the appropriate times, identification designations for remotelocations are provided in sequence, to address a memory for fetchingtelephone numbers and/or graphic display data also recorded when theappointments are scheduled. Accordingly, in sequence, vendor locationsare dialed up via the public telephone system, either manually orautomatically, to obtain audio-video communication providing an image ofthe vendor and the surrounding area at a specific vendor location.

Additionally, data associated with a vendor (or a buyer) may begraphically displayed for convenient reference. For each scene displaywith respect to a specific vendor, the graphic display of pertinent dataprovided may, for example, indicate the telephone number, the PINnumber, the video format, vendor rating, current vendor delivery statusand so on.

Special controls such as a mouse may be instituted enablingmanifestations at the vendor location to initiate action or alter thedisplay. Special operations also may be commanded through thevideophone, video still (high quality) or high fidelity (hi-fi) videomeans either on manual initiative or automatically by automaticapparatus.

A video recorder and/or video printer may be located at a remote vendorlocation, central traffic control station or buyer location forselectively or continuously obtaining a video recording or videoprintout of displays.

Multiple coordinated central traffic control stations may be employed tocommunicate with widely distributed vendor or buyer locations withcapabilities to route calls to each other, in the event that all of thecommunication lines are occupied and there is a considerable backlog ofcalls. Calls may be routed to the next available operator (buyer), forexample, in the event appointments scheduled for a particular buyer lastlonger than contemplated, or another buyer familiar with that line ofproducts may step in and handle the appointment.

Under some circumstances it may be desirable to prioritize calls. Forexample, appointments may be queued in sequence, specific appointmentsmay precede other routed appointments in accordance with an overridefeature.

A record of the number of calls and related charges incurred by thebuyers for appointments is maintained, which may be analyzed andultimately rebilled to the vendors. Of course, charges for schedulingare incurred directly by the vendors. Also, a record of charges incurredfor each caller (buyer or vendor), depending upon the transactioninitiated, may be maintained and billed to each caller.

These as well as other features of the present system will becomeapparent from the detailed description which follows, consideredtogether with the appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A complete understanding of the invention and its advantages may begained from consideration of the following description of some disclosedembodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the system in accordance with oneembodiment, illustrating a telephonic interface appointment schedulingand routing system;

FIG. 2 is a more detailed block and pictorial diagram of the system ofFIG. 1, illustrating the basic components of the scheduling and routingsystem;

FIG. 3 is a graphic representation of a portion of the control panel ofan element in the system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary format of an identification card issued by thescheduling and routing system;

FIG. 5 is a more detailed block diagram illustrating the central trafficcontrol system of the scheduling and routing system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a logic flow diagram illustrating an exemplary operationformat of the system of FIG. 5 for automated qualification of callers,such as vendors or buyers;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of an exemplarystorage cell for information specific to a vendor, as may be formattedin the system of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of an exemplarystorage cell for information specific to a buyer, as may be formatted inthe system of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary form indicating a buyer's request; and

FIG. 10 is an exemplary message transmitted from the central trafficstation to a buyer or a vendor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As indicated above, a significant aspect of the scheduling and routingsystem of the present invention is based on recognizing that a dial-uppublic telephone system may be effectively utilized for visualcommunication and conferences between a plurality of remote locationsregulated and controlled by a central traffic control station. Morespecifically, it has been recognized that for an effective communicationtraffic control system, dial-up voice quality lines, such as standardanalog or digital lines, may be employed variously in conjunction withvideophone equipment, computer facilities (personal computers (PCs) withvideo capabilities) and various forms of telephonic equipment as voicegenerators, auto dialers and D-channel or in-band signalling apparatus.

To that end, a dial-up public telephone system TS is illustrated in FIG.1 (upper center) affording effective communication between a pluralityof remote locations, for example, locations L1-Ln representing vendorsites, and at least one central traffic control station TIS. Formerchandising applications, the remote specific vendor locationscommunicate with the central traffic control station TIS, which islocated remote from the buyers' and vendors' facilities.

As a buyer example, XYZ Drug Company (a large chain) may employindividual merchandise buyers responsible for purchasing specificcategories or sub-categories of items. For example, one buyer (person)may be responsible for purchasing body treatment products, such as skinand hair products, another buyer may be responsible for purchasingvitamins and over the counter medications, and yet another forpurchasing magazines and toys, and so on. The present system facilitatesselective transmission of communications between individual buyers ofplural buyer groups or sub-groups and qualified members of plural vendorgroups or sub-groups. For example, special offerings by vendors forparticular merchandise may be transmitted only to buyers designated forpurchase of the merchandise. Likewise, buyer requests for proposals onselect merchandise are transmitted only to vendors designated to sellthe merchandise. Similarly, appointments for conferences may bescheduled by vendors or buyers, although in keeping with presentmerchandising practices, it is generally contemplated that vendors wouldpursue scheduled appointments. However, appointments are generallyverified by buyers and appointment execution calls are generallyinitiated by buyers, either directly or automatically using autodialers.

A fully automated interactive voice response system including ARUs(audio response units) may schedule appointments for specific buyers andsubsequently, load schedules for all the buyers into a memory at thecentral traffic control station. Alternatively, each specific buyer'sschedule may be transmitted to and loaded into a memory at each buyerterminal. In some instances, vendors may communicate with the trafficcontrol station in any of a variety of ways (touch-tone,electronic-mail, voice-mail, facsimile or the like) to make and/orverify appointments and/or initiate the conferences, if necessary. Inaddition, buyers may also communicate with the traffic control system toapprove appointments, or otherwise update information in any of avariety of ways (touch-tone, electronic-mail, voice-mail, facsimile orthe like). During visual conferences (in real-time), vendors may displaytheir goods, packaging or promotional displays and otherwise effectivelycommunicate with the buyers.

Along with a video signal display (real-time, color, motion, freezeframe), under manual or computer control, audio and data signals areemployed to supplement and enhance conferencing operations. In anexemplary system, each of the vendor locations may incorporate severalvideo speakerphones (with one-way and two-way communication and echocanceling), a camera (separate cameras also may be used to concurrentlyprovide images for a videophone and high quality still images),switches, automatic dialing devices and computer memory capability forinitiating and responding to commands from the central traffic controlsystem, as well as, for initiating various actions to accomplish changeor to accommodate special circumstances.

Conventionally, in merchandising applications, it is appropriate for thevendors to incur communication expenses. To facilitate this, a reducedrate service for long distance outbound calling, for example MEGACOM,may be installed at each of the buyers' facilities. Data on calls madeby the buyers may be obtained from the telephone company (e.g., AT&Ttelephone company) and analyzed to isolate calls made to each specificvendor and thus, the cumulative charges incurred may be computed. Forexample, outgoing call activity may be monitored at each of the buyers'facilities or the independently managed, central traffic control siteand rebilled to specific vendors.

Alternatively, toll free or “800” services at each of the vendorlocations may be installed, and “800” number calls initiated by thebuyers may be billed to each of the vendor locations. Further, thecentral traffic control system may include a central detail service tocontract for and install telephone services at both the buyer and vendorlocations, in order to obtain and report on calls to and from thebuyers, as well as, centrally bill both buyers and vendors for all videotelephone communications.

Considerable other data may be developed and stored. For example, thecentral traffic control station for each buyer facility may maintain arecord of outbound calls made by all the buyers located at that facilityincluding data, such as the date and time of the call, the name of thebuyer initiating the call and the duration of the call. Accordingly,information for each buyer may be subsequently compiled. Likewise, thecentral traffic control station may maintain a record of all the callsmade by each vendor. For example, a specific organization may wish toascertain the number of vendor calls to a particular buyer. Accordingly,the central traffic control station may compile such data by comparingvendor outbound calls with a database of buyers (including information,such as telephone numbers, names etc.).

Furthermore, in some cases, a summary of each buyer's efficiency may berecorded and provided to interested parties. For example, a buyer'sefficiency may be ascertained by the number of video calls made by aspecific buyer every week, the average length of the video call, andother data displayed from the database, namely, name of the vendor,names of the persons participating in the call, and so on. For example,for a particular buyer a summary could indicate that during the week ofMar. 20, 1993, forty calls were made for an average length of twentyminutes. Detailed information may further indicate that specifically at10:00 a.m., on Mar. 20, 1993, a first appointment with Mr. John Blow, ofABC Fruit Company was initiated, which lasted for 1 hour and 12 minutes,and at 11:12 a.m., a second appointment with Ms. Mary Smith of XYZCutlery Company lasted 11 minutes and so on.

The central traffic control station TIS may automatically place a call(for example, to broadcast a proposal request from a buyer) to theappropriate vendor locations, determined by a database of vendorlocations qualified (for example, as by specific category orsub-category) for the particular merchandise for which the buyerrequests proposals. Likewise, when executing appointments, the buyer mayplace a call to the appropriate vendor location, determined also by adatabase associated with the particular one of the vendor locationsL1-Ln, with which the specific buyer has an appointment scheduled.Alternatively, the buyer may actuate an autodialer, such that theautodialer code number (obtained from the central traffic controlstation database) displayed on the buyer's video terminal connects himor her to the appropriate vendor. In the event there are complicationsor otherwise, the buyer may use a regular telephone or a cellulartelephone and manually dial the telephone number displayed on the videoterminal. It is currently recognized that cellular transmission willultimately provide dynamic motion and high resolutions freeze framedisplays.

The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 shows the independently managed,central traffic control system TIS (right), located remote from thebuyer systems illustrated at BS1-BSn and the vendor terminals L1-Ln.Under control of the central traffic control system TIS, communicationis provided through a dial-up public telephone system TS, between thevendor terminals L1-Ln and the buyer systems BS1-BSn. The buyer systemBS1 is shown in some detail, specifically, as including a telephoneinterface switch SW coupled to a control computer CC for regulating aplurality of monitor stations V1-Vn.

Preliminarily, considering an exemplary sequence of operations withreference to FIG. 1, assume that different vendor terminals L1-Ln areequipped with videophone, video still (high quality) or hi-fi videocapabilities. Alternatively, the vendors may have desktop personalcomputers incorporating live-action, color video with standard voicetelephone lines via networks and modems.

Each buyer system BS1-BSn may be equipped with a platform to accommodateselect communications with various vendors. Assume that a person atvendor location L1 wishes to schedule an appointment with a buyer atbuyer terminal V1. As a result, telephone equipment at the location L1is actuated, either manually or automatically, prompting dial-upoperations to accomplish a connection from the vendor location L1through the telephone system TS to the traffic control system TIS.Standard information, as the specific buyer with which the vendor may beentitled to schedule an appointment may be indicated by dialed numberidentification signals (DNIS) using a capability readily available fromthe telephone system TS, as for example on the so-called D-channel. Itis to be noted that while the D-channel apparatus provides oneoperational configuration, some DNIS and/or ANI (Automatic NumberIdentification) data signals can be received in-band without D-channelapparatus. In any event, such signals may direct or qualifycommunication under control of the system TIS. It should be noted thatDNIS and ANI signals can be used for identification, whereby the controlcomputer CC may fetch identification data for graphic displays.

As another feature, an incoming line can be designated at the centraltraffic control system, such as an “800” line to receive calls from anytelephone (pay-phone, vendor location or the like) to prompt scheduling.For example, a call on the “800” line may be answered by an interface oran operator to schedule an appointment with a specific buyer or vendor.The vendor might be specified by ANI signals when calling from aspecific vendor location. Accordingly, a vendor can simply call thedesignated number from any telephone to enter the scheduling program.

For scheduling purposes, PIN numbers (personal identification numbers)are assigned to vendors. The PIN number may be coded to indicate thespecific organization that a vendor is associated with. Alternatively, adatabase of PIN numbers correlating to specific organizations mayprovide that information. Entry of a PIN number by a vendor may qualifya vendor for contact with a select buyer. Initiating contact also may becontrolled by a clock, for example, some communications might be limitedto the hours between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. Additionally, otherspecifications may be designated for specific groups of vendors. Thus,the system may be configured such that DNIS and ANI communicationfeatures cross reference with the clock, prior to answering. Forexample, if the present time is between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., only selectvendor calls are accepted. Some vendors may be accorded priority statusallowing them to schedule appointments for select priority days, forexample, Thursdays. Similarly, priority status may be accorded tovendors offering distressed merchandise at discount rates.

As described in detail below, a priority field stored in the vendor'scell VC (FIG. 7) may incorporate a use-rate component, whereby extent ofuse by vendors may be controlled. That is, FIG. 7 illustrates exemplarystorage cells of the traffic control system TIS, wherein informationspecific to each vendor and buyer, such as the telephone number, graphicdata, merchandise codes, schedules and the like may be stored. Forexample, a vendor cell VC may be accessed by the telephone number andaddress to obtain information such as the vendor PIN number, telephonenumber, video format and so on. In some formats it may be desirable todesignate a rating for each vendor indicating dependability, efficiencyat delivering, credit worthiness, specific buyer organizations withwhich the vendor is registered etc.

Furthermore, to indicate an established relationship, a designationindicating priority may also be stored to isolate a particular vendorfrom a plurality of vendors selling similar goods. Of course, the vendorcell VC may also indicate the vendor's name, any relevant personalinformation, the company's name, other persons participating in aconference and so on. Similarly, data relating to the last purchase mayalso be of importance to some buyers.

With the central traffic control system TIS interacting with a pluralityof widely distributed vendors and buyers, a cross reference numberidentifying transactions with other buyers may be of importance.Moreover, a record of the buyers available and the time limit for eachbuyer is also recorded. Similarly, the priority designation or statusaccorded to a vendor for any of a myriad of reasons may indicate, forexample, that a particular vendor has distressed merchandise for sale atdiscount rates. Also, vendors that are not registered may be able toobtain appointments with buyers or buyers' assistants for predefinedshort periods of time, for example, five minutes.

To ensure effective and proper directing and exchange of traffic, forexample, special offers by vendors and responses thereto by buyers,requests for proposals from buyers and responses thereto by vendors, orthe like, merchandise codes that apply to each wholesale vendor andwholesale buyer are recorded. The merchandise codes, discussed in moredetail below, regulate communication and avoid information overload, asby providing an indication of the type of products that each particularvendor or buyer is authorized to sell or buy.

It should be recognized that appointment schedules also stored in vendorand buyer cells VC and BC (FIGS. 7 and 8), respectively, may be revisedand updated on site by the traffic control system. For example,considering a situation where a last minute cancellation or change withrespect to a schedule, special offering, request for proposal orproposal is necessary, changes, cancellations or updates to any of thesetransactions may be requested remotely by vendors and buyers alike.Moreover, vendors or buyers may wish to add pertinent information duringvisual conferences (real-time) simply for storage in the cells VC and BCor otherwise for subsequent processing.

To recap, under control of the traffic control system TIS, the dial-uppublic telephone system TS affords effective communication between theremote locations L1-Ln and the buyer systems BS1-BSn. Each buyer systemlocated at a buyer's facility includes a telephone switch SW, throughwhich incoming calls are received and outgoing calls are placed.Incoming data signals (DNIS and ANI) are passed to the internal controlcomputer CC to select an appropriate one of the terminals V1-Vn tohandle the call. For example, a station V1 might be assigned to buyerTom Jones at XYZ Drug company, responsible for purchasing vitamins andover the counter medications. In addition, the computer CC also providescomputer graphic signals to monitor station V1 supplementing the coupledtelevision display, for example, to provide a composite display of ascene at location L1 along with appropriate graphic data.

To consider the operation of the total-system embodiment in somewhatgreater detail, reference will now be made to FIG. 2 in which previouslyidentified components bear similar reference numbers. Preliminarily, itshould also be recognized that certain basic components illustrated onlyat the central traffic control site TIS, such as memory, data storage,auto dialers, printers, VCRs etc., obviously may also be found at thebuyer sites.

In the illustrated embodiment, the central traffic control system TISdirects and exchanges on-line and off-line traffic between the vendorand buyer sites, in the form of special offerings, proposals etc., aswell as accepting appointment requests from either the vendor or thebuyer sites. Appointment requests are generally initiated from thevendor locations L1-Ln. Subsequently, buyers initiate communication withspecific vendors in accordance with scheduled appointments at theappropriate times.

The central traffic control system TIS may initiate contact with thevendor locations L1-Ln or the buyer locations V1-Vn (in predeterminedsequence or randomly) to afford communication with the designated vendoror buyer. For visual conferences, buyers may initiate contact with theappropriate vendor locations L1-Ln also in sequence, such as whenscheduled, or in some instances randomly.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, different vendor locations may have differentcommunication capabilities, as represented by terminals VP1, VS1 foranalog telephone communication capabilities over standard analog lines(static, videophone or PC), terminal VD1 for digital video capabilitiesover ISDN lines, and CDP1 for a combined terminal for analog and digitalcommunication capabilities. For illustration purposes, FIG. 2 shows onetelephone (see CDPI) as exhibiting both analog and digital communicationcapabilities.

The videophone terminal VP1 may be a unit available from AT&T, such asthe Videophone 2500, or one available from MCI. A form of the digitalvideo system VD1, for example, the NCR PVS-70 system also is availablefrom AT&T/NCR and is recognized to provide high quality images. A staticvideo system VS1 may be AT&T's PICASSO™ still image phone, whichtransmits “picture perfect” still color images and voice simultaneouslyin just a matter of seconds. By pushing a button on the PICASSO™ phone,a still image for a camcorder or electronic camera may be captured and,by pushing another button, that picture may be transmitted to anotherPICASSO™ phone. Such a video static system connects to standard analogtelephone lines and is compatible with a wide range of video technologyused in daily communication and industry standard camcorders, electroniccameras, mouse devices, document scanners and photo CD players.Accordingly, full-color images, virtually of any type, size or dimensionmay be transmitted for display on a TV, LCD panel, PC monitor or videomonitor. Images may be stored or printed using a PC interface.

FIG. 2 also illustrates representative operator (buyer) terminals V1-Vn,coupled to the traffic control system TIS. Of course, all the operatorterminals, as well as, the central traffic control system may becompatibly configured. Note that different videophone systems, rely ontheir own proprietary codecs, sometimes with more than one as an option.Generally, the operator terminals have the capability to accommodatevideophone operation along with telephone switching and a variety ofcontrol functions.

The central traffic control system TIS includes a computer control andinterface system 28 coupled to several operating devices including anauto dialer 30, a memory 32, a “D” channel signal processor 34, an audioresponse unit (ARU) 36 and a caller test unit 38. These structures andtheir interconnections are disclosed in greater detail below.

The computer control and interface system 28 also is connected to aclock 40 and an operator station 42. The clock 40 may control schedulingoperations as explained above. For example, updates or changes toappointments, such as cancellations, may be remotely implemented (forexample, via the central traffic control system) and forwarded to theappropriate buyer in a variety of ways, such as facsimile,electronic-mail, voice-mail or the like. The clock 40 may likewisemonitor time limitations, as when special offerings and proposals areonly valid for defined intervals of time.

With the live operator station 42, calls from vendors seekingappointments, making special offerings, or alternatively, calls frombuyers seeking appointments or proposals, may be transferred to a humanoperator, in the event there are complications with the automaticresponse units or message recording equipment or in the event callersare calling from a rotary telephone. Some vendors or buyers may alwaysprefer telephone communication with a human operator at some level.

As indicated above, flexibility to accommodate various vendor equipmentconfigurations is an important aspect of the central traffic controlsystem TIS and the operator terminals V1-Vn. In that regard, it shouldbe recognized that even though only the buyer operator terminals V1-Vnare shown coupled to a format switch 41 (lower center), the centraltraffic control system TIS also has some form of a format switch, shownas part of the video file server. The format switch 41 selects acompatible one of analog video circuits and static video circuits (onanalog communication lines) and digital video circuits (on digitalcommunication lines) for driving one or more monitors incorporating suchspecific circuits. Each of the video monitors V1-Vn carry a camera C1-Cnwhich may variously facilitate dynamic motion images and still images.The format switch unit 41 can switch a single analog line 39 (fromanalog lines AL1-ALn) to couple to either videophone circuits or staticvideo circuits or a digital line (or lines from digital lines DL1-DLn)indicated at 39 a to couple to digital video circuits. Note that twolines are typically required for digital video, one for audio and onefor digital data. Alternatively, the audio line may also serve as theanalog line.

A video recorder (VCR) also may be provided, indicated generally at 51a, which may be set to record continuously or intermittently, to providehistorical data for subsequent reference when conferring with asupervisor or refreshing the memory with respect to specific features.Alternatively, a video printer, also indicated at 51 a, may be used. Onreceiving a request command, for example from the traffic controlstation TIS, the video recorder may record compressed video signals ofthe display images. Of course, continuous recording by the videorecorder may be suspended when desired.

At locations where more than one camera is positioned, a single videorecorder may be connected to the multiple cameras via a switching deviceto control and sequence the recordings from the cameras. A switchingdevice such as the intelligent sequential switcher manufactured by SONY,as Model No. YS-S100, may be used to control and sequence multiplerecordings. In addition, plural video recorders, such as separate videorecorders for recording images transmitted on digital or analog linesmay be connected.

In some situations, select frozen frames of viewings of vendor productsor a specific time period of each viewing of a vendor product may berecorded on a VCR or printed using a video printer, for example twoseconds (specific time period) of a twenty minute appointment for eachvendor location. Such video printing may be obtained both by buyers andvendors.

Likewise, the operator terminal V1 (or the vendor location or thecentral traffic control system), for example, may incorporate a standardline printer for providing a printed record of predetermined vendorcommunications, e.g., indicating the date, time, location, period ofappointment etc. Thus, a detailed hard-copy record is available whendesired.

The traffic control system TIS also includes within a memory 32 orseparate therefrom, a video EDI 35 for storing EDI software (ElectronicData Interchange facilitating direct computer-to-computer exchange offorms) or the like. It should be recognized that the buyer terminalsV1-Vn may also have EDI software or the like stored in memory, by virtueof which, easy access to and exchange of forms is facilitated. Thetraffic control system TIS also includes a video file server 37, wherevendors and buyers may deposit a video recording of a product beingoffered by a vendor or alternatively, desired by a buyer. A blockindicated at 45 and labeled “data storage” stores standard system andnetwork software. Selectivity logic, indicated at 47, to preventinformation overload selectively directs communications between membersof plural groups or sub-groups, such as wholesale buyer and vendorgroups. Operations relating to the selectivity logic 47 are discussedbelow.

At this stage, consider an initial phase of a vendor scheduling anappointment. In that regard, select vendors are given advance notice ofcalling numbers and operating instructions. Accordingly, consider anexemplary operation sequence from the vendor telephone AT1 (FIG. 2).Thus, the vendor initiates dial-up operation with the central systemTIS, seeking to schedule an appointment with the specific buyer. With aconnection, a called number is indicated by Dialed Number IdentificationSignals (DNIS) utilizing facilities readily available and provided bythe dial-up telephone system TS through the so-called D-channelapparatus 34. Thus, the central traffic control system has a basis fordetermining if, by reason of dialing the called number, the vendor isentitled to make an appointment with a specified buyer. A PIN numberentered by the vendor may also qualify a caller (vendor).

The dial-up telephone system TS also provides Automatic NumberIdentification (ANI) signals indicating the calling number on theso-called D-channel apparatus 34. In various operational phases of thepresent disclosed embodiment, such signals identify the remote vendorlocation L1 to the central traffic control system TIS. Using suchinformation, the memory 32 may provide alternate forms of callingsignals, commanding a specific outgoing line from the telephoneinterface and control unit 28 to afford additional communication.Specifically, for example, ANI signals might command various relateddata from the memory 32. Thus, an appointment may be scheduled forexecution at a later time as explained in detail below.

As an alternative to simply scheduling an appointment, assume that thecaller is located at the buyer terminal VP1 and wishes to initiate videocontact with a specific buyer. Upon attaining communication, the callmay be processed, for example, directly to the buyer terminal V1, atwhich appropriate videophone communication is provided with the vendor.In that regard, video monitors at the terminals V1-Vn may be compatibleto receive videophone signals through the dial-up telephone system TSand the interface system 28 of the traffic control system TIS.

Whether a conference is implemented as a result of a direct call from avendor, or as a result of a scheduled appointment, in accordance withthe present development, the selected operator terminal V1-Vn (buyerterminal) is formatted to a configuration compatible with the connectedvendor terminal. In that regard, the terminal AT1 (vendor) simplyaccommodates audio and digital signals and is representative of suchterminals for use to schedule appointments, as in an ARU interface.Alternatively, person-to-person communication is available through theoperator station 42.

The videophone terminal VP1 is representative of such units to provideone form of audio/video communication with one of the terminals V1-Vn.During such communication, the switch 41 is actuated to activate thevideophone circuits to function in cooperation with one of the monitorsV1 or Vn. Thus, compatible communication is implemented for eachoutgoing call, utilizing data from the memory 32.

For communication with static video systems (PICASSO™ units) asrepresented by the terminal VS1, the switch 41 actuates the static videocircuits for compatible operation of a monitor V1 or Vn. Note thatparticularly effective operations may involve combination formats, forexample, a videophone and a static video system (likely using a singleanalog line). Specifically, with both of the appropriate circuitsoperative, the camera and the monitor V1 may function in a videophoneformat to accommodate effective personal communication between a buyerand a seller. Concurrently, the camera and the monitor V1 may operate ina static video format to effectively exhibit a vendor's product.Additionally, a mouse 51 at the terminal VS1, controls a cursor in thedisplay of the monitor V1 further enhancing interactive communication. Amouse, such as the one indicated at 51 may also be provided at the buyerterminals V1-Vn. Again, the switch 41 controls the operations to attainthe compatible format.

To further illustrate the possibilities, the terminal VD1 isrepresentative of high fidelity (hi-fi) telephonic video systems usingdigital lines for higher resolution dynamic displays. As with respect tothe other formats, the switch 41 selectively actuates the compatiblecircuits, the digital video circuits, to drive a selected combination ofcamera and monitor.

It may be seen that the video platforms of terminals V1-Vn offerconsiderable flexibility in accommodating multiple audio-video formats.Convenience is served by the multiple format capability of the cameraalong with the video monitor V1-Vn.

Recapitulating, the terminal V1 has been described for communicationwith the various equipments at locations to include a video location fordisplay. In addition to the display, each of the terminals V1-Vnincorporates a handpiece or equivalent, and a substantial control panelthat may be in the form of a telephone pad or embodied as part of apersonal computer keyboard. In any event, the control panel for eachterminal V1-Vn includes the current controls for an operative videoformat, plus dedicated controls relating to the disclosed system. Inthat regard, in the interest of avoiding undue complications, only afragment of the representative panel 80 for the terminal V1 is shown inFIG. 4.

Generally the panel 80 affords considerable control, including the useof keypad tone signals (DTMF) to perform control operations at both endsof a communication. Specifically, the fragment of the panel 80 of FIG. 4incorporates a traditional twelve-button telephone pad 82, bearing thenumerals “1” through “0” along with the symbols “★” and “#.” Thedesignated buttons each generate a distinct DTMF signal in accordancewith extensive practice, which signals are communicated to all connectedterminals.

Various other specific controls are provided on the panel 80. An on-offbutton 84 controls outgoing audio. A toggle 86 controls the volume ofincoming audio. An on-off switch 88 controls video at the terminal. Apair of toggle switches 90 and 91, respectively, control zooming andpanning camera operations. A push button switch 93 serves as aninterrupt for locking onto the current display (high quality freezeframe) for closer observation or to record data and in some cases higherresolution images for closer observation at a later time, for example,by use of a video printer. In addition, another toggle switch 95controls tilting camera operations and a push button 97 advances thefreeze frame for subsequent observation or reverses it back to a dynamicdisplay. A push button switch 99 serves to manually terminate the call.A control switch 101 regulates resolution of the display. Finally asignal lamp 103 illuminates to indicate the next appointment. Generally,by using the telephone keypad 82 on the panel 80, various controlfunctions can be accomplished as detailed in the parent patentapplications identified herein under the caption “CROSS REFERENCE TORELATED APPLICATIONS” and incorporated herein by reference.

One form of control involves video coordination. For example, inaccordance with a program, a conference might be initiated in avideophone format with the terminal V1 (FIG. 2). Accordingly, thevideophone circuits are active to drive the video monitor V1. At somepoint, assume the conference participants decide to add a static videocommunication. A command of “52” in touch tones on the pad 82 (see FIG.3) initiates a series of operations. Specifically, another lineconnection is established by actuating the autodialer 30 (FIG. 2), thenstatic video circuits are actuated. At the terminal V1, the static videocircuits are actuated to drive the monitor V1 that may involve anothermonitor or split image operation. Separate displays for dynamic andstill video may be used, such that a buyer at one monitor can conferwith a vendor, speaking face-to-face through the camera and thatmonitor, while the vendor exhibits fine details of a product on a secondmonitor in a still image. Of course, in sequences of such still images,views can be changed and areas highlighted with a cursor controlled bythe mouse 51.

As an alternative to actuating the static video format, the confereesmay elect to go digital. A command “53” from the panel 46 sets therequisite steps in motion. The autodialer 30 dials up a digitalconnection, then using that connection, the switch 41 actuates thedigital video circuits to drive one of the monitors V1-Vn. Note thatwith enhanced hi-fi video communication, the assumed videophonecommunication might best be terminated.

In view of these examples, it will be apparent that the operator at theterminal V1 has substantial control, including the ability to go fromone video format to another. Of course, such operations presume that thevendor has the requisite capacity, which may be indicated in the graphicdisplay as treated in greater detail below.

From the above descriptions, it is apparent that the disclosed systemutilizes videophone technology in combination with other telephonesystem technology along with computer control and graphics technology toaccomplish effective scheduling and processing of traffic for visualconferences.

As explained above, the exemplary central traffic control system TISfunctions to initiate outgoing calls as well as receive and processincoming calls. To resume with the explanation of an incoming call froma vendor to schedule an appointment, when the telephone interface 28(FIG. 2) receives an incoming call, it may be connected to either theoperator station 42 or the audio response unit 36. Concurrently,incoming data signals (DNIS and ANI) are provided to the “D” channelprocessor 34 for control and/or information. For example, from thememory 32, the control computer 28 may fetch the identification of thevendor location L1 embracing one or more of the terminals VD1, etc. Withsuch signal represented data, one or more buyers are identified withwhom the vendor or vendor organization is entitled to schedule anappointment. However, to schedule an appointment, a vendor may usevirtually any form of telephone instrument or terminal including any ofthe units AT1, VP1, VS1, VD1 or CDP1 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The unitAT1 is sufficient either for a telephonic-computer interactive call or adirect operator call (station 42) to schedule an appointment or thelike.

Initially, as described above, inbound calls for a buyer, initiated byvendors, may be received through the interface system 28 (FIG. 2, upperright) for scheduling appointments or directly accommodated at a buyerlocation by the interface telephone switch SW (FIG. 1, center left)including the format switch 41 for visual conferences. The format switch41 may incorporate a variable codec for analog lines AL1-ALN and digitallines DL1-DLN. For analog lines, a video CODEC along with computingcapability may take the form of an AVP1000 video CODEC chip set asavailable from AT&T. Essentially, the CODEC chip set accomplishesvideophone operation and consists of a video encoder, a video decoderand an internal system controller. The format switch unit 41 is shown ascoupled between a standard analog line and a line on ISDN. Uponreceiving a call from a videophone unit, the format switch unit 41selects the appropriate line, that is, the analog line. Alternatively,upon receiving a call from a high fidelity video (digital), the formatswitch unit 41 selects a digital line. Also, as described above, duringvisual communication (real-time), a buyer may make switches, e.g., fromtransmitting dynamic images over a single analog line to high resolutionfreeze frames. The high resolution freeze frames may be viewed on large14 inch monitors. Further, the images may be manipulated from eitherend, to view the freeze frame image concurrently.

In the operation of the system embracing the exemplary formats astreated above and below, a record is made for billing purposes. That is,a billing memory unit BL (FIG. 1) and a standard printer (treated below)are controlled by the computer control 28, recording all transactions inrelation to billing charges. Such data can be variously processed atdifferent times. Basically, the concept involves formulating billingdata, so that at least a part of the calls made to a vendor, forexample, can be rebilled to that vendor.

Considering the dial-up telephone system TS (FIG. 2) in somewhat greaterdetail, in arrangement, the inter-exchange carrier (e.g., AT&T) providescomprehensive data on calls specifying: phone number calling, phonenumber called, date, time, length of call (period), billing data and soon. Test or look-up operations are then performed with reference to avendor database. Accordingly, portions of the charges (with or withoutmark-ups) are rebilled (with appropriate identification to the vendors).Such operations may be particularly effective in relation to “private”networks, e.g., the so-called SDN (software defined network), SDDN(software defined data network) which are compatible with ISDNoperations, or a combination of the two service offerings (SDN withSDDN). Note that AT&T's SDN is a virtual network service which offers anorganization the ability to build a private corporate network within theAT&T public network. A customized database contains information onvarious sites affiliated with the organization (i.e., the serviceorganization installs a “private” network service at many differentbusiness entities) as well as features and routing information.Moreover, SDN encompasses voice, analog data, digital data and imagetransfer. SDDN is a feature of SDN and is most often installed inconjunction with SDN. A combination of the two provides the capabilityof combining all the different sites for network management and billing.Note that both buyers and vendors may wish to extend the scope of thenetwork of participants by installing at least one similar mode of videoin their branches, plants and/or customers.

Essentially, coordinated with the control computer 28 in the system TIS,reapportioning and rebilling options are executed by the billing dataunit utilizing storage capacity of the memory 32 or a separate billingdata memory.

To this point, detailed consideration has been primarily directed to thetreatment of incoming calls to the system TIS. However, as explained,certain modes involve the placement of outgoing calls under eithermanual control or automatic operation. Such operations next are treatedin detail.

As a result of control operations, to implement a sequence of scheduledconferences, the computer control and interface system 28 (FIG. 2) atthe central traffic control site or the control computer CC at the buyersite (FIG. 1) may address, for example, the memory 32 to fetch thetelephone number for an outgoing call, e.g., a vendor location L1. Thetelephone number is supplied from the memory 32 (or a memory at thebuyer location) to the control computer CC which actuates an autodialer, similar to auto dialer 30, to provide the dial-up signals on anoff-hook line provided to the dial-up telephone system TS. Typically, atthe vendor location L1, a dedicated or other line for video operationswill accept the communication.

As an alternative to manual calls, the system may operate under computercontrol to enable a sequence of appointments. During the operation, thecontrol computer CC (FIG. 1) fetches telephone numbers for remotelocations from the memory 32 (or a memory on site) in sequence, actuatesthe auto dialer 34 accordingly, and assigns the resulting connections asscheduled. After a session between a particular buyer and vendor hasconcluded, the control computer CC terminates the connection in favor ofthe next waiting connection. A blinking light 103 (FIG. 3) oralternatively, a graphic display of “Five more minutes for the nextappointment” may be exhibited to the caller to indicate a nextappointment. The operation may result in sequential displays that havebeen scheduled at the particular one of the terminals V1-Vn.

Different selling and buying companies may be registered with thecentral traffic control system TIS. At registration, central trafficcontrol system TIS may issue an identification card with a check digitfor qualification to each representative of the selling or buyingcompany (FIG. 5). An exemplary identification card (embodied fordisplay) is indicated at 211. For example, assume that XYZ company hasfour vendor representatives, all located at vendor location L1 equippedwith analog capabilities only. Further assume that the telephone numberfor that location is (212) 555-5555. Accordingly, the traffic controlsystem TIS may assign a identification number and store the followinginformation under that identification number in memory: Jones, Roger,XYZ Toy Company, Analog System, Telephone number (212) 555-5555,Registered to interact with EFG Company (central station number—(310)666-6666), no priority, IJK Company (central station number—(414)777-7777), priority with buyer no. 3, Thursday appointments may beoffered to vendors with priority status. At registration, each vendorand buyer fills out a subscription form or otherwise provides thecentral traffic control system with specific information, such as thenature of the merchandise they are designated to sell or buy. Thisinformation may be provided with reference to an established list ofmerchandise codes. The designated merchandise codes assist theselectivity logic 47 in making routing determinations to avoidinformation overload. Similarly, vendors and buyers seeking appointmentsare qualified on the basis of these merchandise codes and limited tomaking appointments only with authorized persons.

To make an appointment, a special offering or a proposal in response toa buyer request, the vendor may initiate dial-up operations with thecentral traffic control system TIS. For such calls, the ARU 36 mayprovide voice cues to the vendor and prompt touch tone input ofresponses as described above. A single ARU may be used for differentorganizations, alternatively, different ARU's may be used for differentlarge organizations. The ARU's may include voice-mail capabilities forindividual buyers. After recording all the information pertaining to aspecial offering or proposal, the central traffic control systemprovides reservation or identification numbers. For example, callers maybe queried via the ARU if calling to cancel an appointment or supplementa special offering or proposal. If a call is merely to cancel anappointment, the vendor would only need to enter the appointment number.Likewise, if the call is simply to report that a sale for a specialoffering has been consummated, the vendor may only need to enter anidentification number.

Note that live operators also may take information from vendors andaccess the traffic control computer TIS to enter appropriate requestdata processed similar to the automatic features of the system in theevent vendors are calling from a rotary telephone or for other reasons.Additionally, the live operators may transfer calls to an ARU to enablevendors to leave voice-mail messages.

The traffic control system TIS may provide schedule or other data toindividual buyers via facsimile, either automatically or upon request.Alternatively, schedule or other data may be provided to individualbuyers by downloading data onto a computer at the buyer's locationtypically in batch mode overnight. Recent changes to appointments orspecial offerings and proposals may be displayed on the buyer's terminal(real-time) or forwarded by electronic-mail.

At the central traffic control site, which may service numerous businessentities, several audio response units (ARU) may be used in conjunctionwith several groups of live operators. To accommodate large numbers ofcalls, automatic call distributors (ACD) may be utilized to route callswhere the different business entities are identified by DNIS.

It should be recognized that video recordings on specific merchandisemay be stored at the video file server 37 for viewing by buyers andsales may be consummated without any visual conferences between vendorsand buyers.

Also, it should be recognized that the buyer terminals disclosed hereinmay be used by retailers to sell products directly to the persons havingunits similar to the vendor units described herein in their homes. Insuch a scenario, ANI may be used to identify a particular householdcalling, and DNIS may be used to identify a particular product ofinterest.

As indicated above, the traffic control system TIS incorporatesstructure for a wide variety of communications through the dial-uptelephone system TS. FIG. 5 illustrates a more specific exemplary formof the system TIS. A telephone interface T12 (upper left) accommodates amultitude of line connections to the dial-up public telephone system TS(FIGS. 1 and 2) accommodating two-way communication with variouscapabilities as treated above.

The interface structure T12 (FIG. 5) accommodates the placement ofoutgoing calls by an auto dialer T14 controlled by a computer T16incorporating substantial memory. Auto dialers are well known in thetelephone arts functioning to place calls in response to digitalinstructions. As the source of such digital instructions, along withothers, the control computer T16 comprises a substantial computingcapability, functioning to control telephonic traffic in variouscommunication forms through the telephone interface structure T12.Traffic is controlled, both for servicing and interconnecting remoteterminals at both vendor and buyer locations, e.g., buyer locationsBS1-BSn (FIG. 1) and vendor terminals, e.g. terminals L1-Ln.

The control computer T16 also is connected to an audio response unit T18for vocally cuing and otherwise interfacing remote stations through thetelephone interface structure T12. Again, various forms of audioresponse units are well known in the telephonic arts for verbalizingcues, receiving digital signals and performing some processing. In thatregard, the audio response unit T18 may incorporate some dictionarycapability or may rely on the control computer T16 for an extendeddictionary of words to be vocalized.

The control computer T16 also is connected to receive signals from thetelephone interface structure T12 through a “D” channel circuit T20. Forexample, the “D” channel circuit receives ANI and DNIS signalsindicative of calling and called station numbers as explained above.Essentially, the “D” channel circuit T20 provides call relatedinformation to the control computer T16 in accordance with well knowntechniques of the telephonic arts.

Recapitulating to some extent, it may be seen that the control computerT16, along with the above-mentioned structures, has substantialcapability to interface with remote terminals. However, under certainconditions, manual communication also may be desired. Accordingly, asexplained above, an operator station T21 is coupled to the computer T16to accommodate a human interface. The operator station T21 may take theform of a CRT terminal with graphics display capability and variouscontrols (FIG. 5) implemented through the control computer T16.

As indicated above, to accomplish the traffic control function, thecomputer T16 has substantial computing capability, specifically, forpurposes of control, storage management, delivery, scheduling andinterconnecting remote stations. For convenience of explanation, in FIG.5, several operating components that could be integrated in the computerT16 are separately illustrated. Such separate illustration alsofacilitates the operating explanations. Specifically, separate storagecapacity is illustrated in the form of a buyer-vendor storage unit T24and a buyer-vendor/merchandise code storage unit T26. The storage unitsT24 and T26 are addressed by the control computer T16 to provide datathat is processed along with other data to control and facilitateon-line and off-line communications between buyer and vendor terminals.

As suggested above, communication between the various vendors and buyersinvolves substantial control and regulation along with limitations,thus, the term traffic control is deemed appropriate. In that regard, aqualification unit T28 is coupled both to the control computer T16 andthe storage units T24 and T26. Essentially, the qualification unit T28receives identification and limitation data to qualify buyers andvendors for select individual communications. The storage unit T26 iscoupled directly to the computer T16, along with a billing data memoryT30 and a printer T32 for operation as mentioned above.

Summarizing the extensive treatment above, the present system variouslyimplements both online and offline communication as between vendors andbuyers. The communication is considerably enhanced by video displays.Accordingly, a video file server T34 is coupled directly to thetelephone interface structure T12 and to the control computer T16. Amonitor station T36 is similarly coupled, as for select time or callmonitoring.

In view of the preliminary description of the structure (FIG. 5) acomprehensive explanation of the system now may be expressed by assumingparticular situations and describing typical operating sequences.Accordingly, assume the structure of FIG. 5 is coupled as the trafficcontrol system TIS in the system of FIG. 2 for controlling andregulating select communications between vendor and buyer terminals. Inthat regard, a system of merchandise classification is used to enhancethe selectivity of communication to prevent information overload.Generally, merchandise is classified in accordance with a decimalsystem, somewhat equated to the channels of commerce for various goods.For example, a component of such a classification is as follows.

CHART A Merchandise Decimal Code

    470000 471000 47260 471230 471234 471235      471300 471310 471320      472000

In accordance with the exemplary classification, “body-treatment”merchandise carries the code “470000”. More explicit classifications ofsuch merchandise carry additional decimal indicators. For example, asindicated above, water-resistant, sun protection treatment would beidentified by the code “471234”. Accordingly, entire ranges ofmerchandise are classified and coded to control and regulatecommunication traffic in accordance herewith.

Generally, preliminary inquiries, offers for sale and requests forproposals all carry merchandise codes for selectively identifyingpotentially interested vendors or buyers. As a further element ofclassification, buyers or vendors also may be assigned specific codes,for example, designating a business primarily as, supermarkets,department stores, drug stores and so on.

As detailed below, the operation of the system will be treated as itregulates and controls video communication, for example, selectivelybetween vendors and buyers, to expedite traditionally complex purchasingoperations. In that regard, the embodiment treats six types of telephonecalls. Specifically, primary calls are classified in accordance with thefollowing chart.

CHART B Type Call Nature ″A″ Vendor with special offering ″B″ Buyerresponding to special offering ″C″ Buyer with Request for Proposal (RFP)″D″ Vendor responding to RFP ″E″ Vendor seeking appointment ″F″ Buyerseeking appointment

Typically, calls of the various types involve some form of qualificationor approval. For example, access to the system typically will be limitedto qualified or registered entities. Also, certain limitations will beimposed on such entities. For example, calls that would reveal onevendor's proposal to another vendor are inhibited. Also, it may bedesirable to limit calls from buyers accessing information related toanother buyer. Of course, specific forms of limitations andqualifications may be implemented depending upon specific applications.However, in accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the types of callsset out above, all involve some form of qualification. Thequalifications are generally performed by the qualification unit T28(FIG. 5) utilizing information derived from a call correlated withreference data from the storage units T24 and T26. In that regard, thelogic for the qualification unit T28 may be implemented in accordancewith the flow diagram of FIG. 6 as will now be considered.

In the disclosed embodiment, the qualifications for buyers and vendorsare somewhat similar. Specifically, the tests for a calling vendor are:

-   -   Is the calling station registered as a vendor (or buyer)?    -   Can the caller give a proper PIN number (Identification Number)?    -   Is the vendor qualified for the designated merchandise?    -   Is the vendor approved for an identified buyer or buyers?

The tests for calling a buyer are quite similar. To consider the logicembodied in the qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5), reference will now bemade somewhat concurrently to FIGS. 5 and 6. With the occurrence of anincoming call through the telephone interface structure T12 (FIG. 5),“D” channel signals are supplied through the circuit T20 to the controlcomputer T16. As a result, the computer T16 addresses the buyer-vendorstorage unit T24, using the call number of the originating terminal(ANI). Of course, in other applications DNIS signals may be similarlyemployed. The operation is illustrated by a block T40 (FIG. 6).Addressed by the calling number, the storage unit T24 (FIG. 5) suppliesrepresentative signals indicating: first, that the calling terminal doesbelong to a registered buyer or seller, whether the entity is a buyer ora seller, and the identification number (PIN) for the entity. Theoperation of consulting the storage unit T24 or look-up table isillustrated by a query block T42 in FIG. 6.

If the calling terminal number is not located, indicating anunregistered caller, the qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5) actuates thecomputer T16 for appropriate control. Specifically, the audio responseunit T18 may be prompted to provide a termination message or theoperator station T21 may be actuated for a human interface. Suchalternatives are represented in FIG. 7 by the block T44.

For calls originating from a registered terminal, the qualification unitT28 (FIG. 5) stores the pertinent data, i.e., buyer or seller andreference PIN. The operation is illustrated in FIG. 7 by the block T46.

With the determination of a properly registered calling terminal, thecomputer T16 actuates the audio response unit T18 providing a verbal cuefor an identification number (PIN). The operation is illustrated in FIG.7 by the query block T48. If the caller enters keypad digitalinformation indicating an invalid PIN, or makes no entry at all, theoperation again proceeds to the block T44 for termination or transfer ofthe call as explained above. With the entry of a valid PIN, theoperation proceeds to store the personal identification number asindicated by a block T50.

The qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5) next functions in cooperation withthe computer T16 driving the audio response unit T18 to cue the callerfor the type of call and the merchandise code, see blocks T52 and T54(FIG. 6) representing such operations. Although such operations are notdetailed in FIG. 6, it is to be understood that improper responses orthe lack of a response will transfer the process to the function ofblock T44, as illustrated, to terminate or transfer the call. On thecontrary, if appropriate information is received, the qualification unitT28 (FIG. 5) receives and stores the requested information.Consequently, the unit T28 contains: the caller's PIN number, the calltype and the merchandise code. That data is then tested within thequalification unit T28, against reference data, in a process step asillustrated by the query block T56 in FIG. 7. The details of the testare treated in somewhat greater detail below; however, as illustrated inFIG. 7, if the tests are not successful, the process again proceeds tothe termination block T44; otherwise, the process proceeds to a blockT58 to implement the substantive communication of the call.

The final test of the call involves operation of the qualification unitT28 (FIG. 5) in conjunction with the storage unit T26. That is, for eachbuyer and vendor, the unit T26 stores merchandise codes and, in someinstances, other special information. For example, typically, vendorsmay be denied access to certain information. For example, a vendor wouldnot have access to the type calls: “A” (a special offering of anothervendor), “D” (another vendor responding to an RFP) and so on. However,exceptions are possible and in that regard it is simply important toappreciate that special situations may be stored in the unit T26.

Returning to the routine situation, as indicated above, each buyer andvendor is associated with specific merchandise codes. In that regard,merchandise codes not only facilitate and expedite communication butadditionally, charges and billing data (for storage in the memory T30)may be based on active merchandise codes for a subscriber.

Pursuing a specific example, assume a caller, identified as a vendor andotherwise qualified is pursuing the presentation of a special offering.Further assume that the calling vendor is associated only with hairproducts (Chart A, code 472000). However, assume that the calleridentifies the “merchandise of interest” to be a water resistant sunskin product, code 471234. Thus, the identified merchandise code doesnot coincide with the caller's registered merchandise code. In such acase, the processing is halted with the consequence that the call iseither terminated or transferred to an operator. At this stage, likelyoperation would involve referring the call to an operator. Thus, thequalification unit T28 concludes the test by assuring that the entitybeing represented by a call is authorized for access with respect to theidentified codes.

Once a caller has been identified, the control computer T16 (FIG. 5)functions primarily in conjunction with the video file server T34 toimplement the communication. Of course, in instances where anappointment is sought, as described in detail above, the function of thevideo file server T34 may be relatively nominal. Note with regard toappointments, that a caller may simply request an appointmentimmediately within call types “E” and “F”. That is, within the conceptof obtaining an appointment, a caller may simply seek to speak with aparticular vendor or buyer representative immediately.

To consider the specific operations, assume that the exemplary caller isa vendor with a special offering, i.e., call type “A”. As a specificexample, the caller may represent a vendor entity dealing in distressedmerchandise holding a considerable volume of hair shampoo packaged forwomen, i.e., merchandise code “472147”. With the merchandise codesstored, the control computer T16 actuates the video file server T34along with the audio response unit T18 to receive a video presentationof the merchandise, that is, the hair shampoo. Typically, the vendorwill have organized the presentation prior to making the telephone callso that the merchandise can be variously demonstrated and variousinformation including pricing etc. expressed in the video presentation.Thus, an effective record of the video presentation is stored in thefile server T34 essentially in the form of a sales presentation for thehair shampoo, that is, product code “472147”.

With the completion of the video record, the control computer T16actuates the storage unit T26 to isolate all buyers associated with theproduct code “472147” identifying hair shampoo. With the list of buyersidentified and a video presentation recorded, the subsequent operationsinvolve communicating the video presentation to the select group ofbuyers. In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the identifiedbuyer group is notified of the availability of the demonstration.Thereafter, qualified buyers may establish communication (call “B”)through the telephone interface structure T12 (FIG. 5) to receive thestored video presentation from the file server T34. Various specificarrangements may be involved. The central traffic system may maintain arecord or log of all the buyers accessing the video file server, whichmay be provided to the vendor, upon request. A record of the time(provided by the clock) spent by each buyer in viewing a videopresentation may also be maintained. For example, a specific buyer mayterminate the video after viewing it for only a few minutes, whileanother buyer may view the entire video presentation. The vendor mayrequest such information to determine buyers, reactions to the specialoffering, for marketing or other reasons.

In some situations, it may be particularly advantageous for buyers toreceive early notice of a special offering by a vendor. Accordingly, itmay be desirable to implement a rotational order scheme or a randomoperation for determining the sequence in notifying buyers.Specifically, a random number generator may be incorporated in thecontrol computer T16 for ordering the list of buyers for notification.

Notices to buyers or vendors also may vary considerably, depending uponindividual programming considerations. In some situations, vendors mayprovide a special list of buyers or alternatively, exclude specificbuyers. All buyers and vendors are provided with a list of participatingmembers of the network, at registration. Periodic updates of new membersmay be circulated from time to time.

In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the control computer T16simply actuates the auto dialer T14 to establish telephoniccommunication with buyers after which the audio response unit T18notifies the buyer. Alternatives involve the utilization of facsimile orthe like capability or various forms of electronic mail may beincorporated for utilization. In any event, the select group of buyersis notified that the presentation on a hair shampoo packaged for womenis accessible by interfacing through the telephone structure T12.Responding buyers (call type “B”) are qualified as described above, thencoupled to the video file server T34 to receive the video presentation.Thereafter, interested buyers may directly contact the vendor, typicallyfor further video communication. Thus, the foundation for a transactionis completed rapidly and effectively with substantial communication ofthe goods involved and related considerations.

Another possibility involves type “C” calls, whereby a buyer distributesa request for proposal. Again, various communications may beaccomplished to a select group or sub-group of vendors based onmerchandise codes. To consider a specific form of communication inaccordance herewith, after qualification, a buyer might use videocommunication to notify vendors with a graphic such as one illustratedin FIG. 9. FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary buyer request form providingspecific information of the merchandise. Blank forms may be stored in aforms directory (e.g. menu-driven) or the like on each buyers terminal.Thus, when making a request for proposals, a buyer may simply access ablank form and enter the specific information. Essentially, amerchandise code number “472361” is supplied, indicating the specificproduct as also identified in the graphic. After the notice has beensent to vendors, a message as represented in FIG. 10 may be transmittedto the buyer from the central traffic control system TIS. Note that acheck digit may be supplied. Likewise, vendors may access blank forms,similar to the exemplary buyer request forms, to indicate specialofferings.

Following receipt of a request for proposal, interested vendors maysubmit a video presentation as described above. Alternatively, vendorsmay be invited to call for an appointment or otherwise communicate theirproposals to buyers. Thus, the system affords considerable flexibilityin selectively communicating product information between buyers andsellers using video formats.

In view of the above description, it will be apparent that numerousoperating formats, programs and layouts may be accomplished using a widevariety of videophone equipment in cooperation with computing andtelephone apparatus. As indicated above, the disclosed embodimentsafford some arrangements; however, the scope hereof should not soconfined, rather the scope hereof should be in accordance with theclaims as set forth below.

1. A control system for enabling communication exchanges between pluralgroups at widely distributed remote locations, including at least oneprospective buyer at a buyer terminal including a personal computer anda plurality of vendors, wherein the prospective buyer has access to atleast video data at a central site associated with the control systemand managed by a third party, the central site offering to theprospective buyer services or merchandise relating to the plurality ofvendors, the control system for use with a communication networkaccessible to the public to enable communication exchanges between thebuyer terminal and the central site, wherein the communication exchangesare related to the possibility of consummating a transaction with atleast one of the vendors via the central site, the control systemcomprising: an interface associated with the central site forfacilitating communications through the communication network involvingthe buyer terminal and the central site for the plurality of vendors andfor receiving data from the prospective buyer at the buyer terminalincluding identification data and data relating to an area of interest,which relate to the services or merchandise; memory storage associatedwith the central site to receive and store data including data relatingto areas of interest on various services or merchandise provided by theplurality of vendors, the services or merchandise classified intocategories and subcategories, and the memory storage also storingpricing data for the services or merchandise; and a processor associatedwith the central site to control, manage and interconnect the buyerterminal with the central site for the plurality of vendors, and toutilize the data provided by at least one prospective buyer toselectively determine an appropriate vendor from the plurality ofvendors and to provide select video data provided by the appropriatevendor via the central site for display at the buyer terminal inaccordance with the area of interest as communicated via thecommunication network from the buyer terminal pursuant to a possibletransaction for the prospective buyer as identified by saididentification data and wherein the processor provides to the buyerterminal an email relating to the area of interest indicated by theprospective buyer via the buyer terminal, following the communicationsinvolving the buyer terminal and the central site with offerings ofservices or merchandise for the appropriate vendor.
 2. A control systemaccording to claim 1 wherein the areas of interest relate to merchandiseor service classes as classified into the categories and subcategories,which are represented by codes.
 3. A control system according to claim 2wherein said codes are represented by numerical representations.
 4. Acontrol system according to claim 2 wherein said interface includes acapability to communicate with any one vendor of the plurality ofvendors through said communication network under control of saidprocessor in accordance with merchandise or service classes asclassified according to the categories and subcategories designated byeach vendor from the plurality of vendors.
 5. A control system accordingto claim 4 wherein said merchandise or service classes are representedby numerical representations.
 6. A control system according to claim 1wherein said appropriate vendor further stores text data at the centralsite relating to the services or merchandise and wherein said text datais selectively supplied to the buyer terminal for display.
 7. A controlsystem according to claim 1 wherein said identification data includes acheck digit.
 8. A control system according to claim 1 wherein saididentification data comprises at least in part an electronic mailaddress for the prospective buyer.
 9. A control system according toclaim 1 wherein said identification data is stored by said processor forbilling purposes related to a transaction selection by the prospectivebuyer.
 10. A control system according to claim 1 wherein said video dataincludes dynamic video representations.
 11. A control system accordingto claim 1 wherein said video data provided to said buyer terminal maybe controlled at said buyer terminal.
 12. A control system according toclaim 1 wherein said data from the prospective buyer includes anindication of the maximum amount that a buyer is willing to pay in atransaction.
 13. A control system according to claim 1 further includingan operator terminal.
 14. A control system according to claim 1 furtherincluding a printer.
 15. A control system according to claim 1, whereinthe email includes a number identifying the transaction.
 16. A controlsystem according to claim 1, wherein the video data is still imagevideo.
 17. A control system according to claim 1, wherein the processoris configured to further isolate at least certain prospective buyersbased on an indicated area of interest and at some point to notify themby email that a video presentation is available for viewing, and whereinthe processor receives video data and pricing data relating to the videopresentation provided by the appropriate vendor.
 18. A control systemaccording to claim 17, wherein the video presentations are available fora limited period of time, which is controlled by the processor.
 19. Acontrol system according to claim 1, wherein the memory stores data forthe plurality of vendors where the vendors are distinct.
 20. A controlsystem according to claim 1, wherein the control system communicateswith at least certain of the plurality of vendors online via the centralsite.
 21. A control system according to claim 1, wherein the controlsystem communicates with at least certain of the plurality of vendorsoffline.
 22. A control system according to claim 1, wherein theprospective buyer receives multiple emails via the control systemrelating to the area of interest.
 23. A control system according toclaim 1 wherein the areas of interest are indicated via a keyboardprovided as part of the buyer terminal.
 24. A process of controlinvolving a plurality of terminals for prospective buyers, the terminalshaving video display capability, and a plurality of vendors associatedwith one or more different merchandise or services, wherein the buyerterminals communicate with a central site offering the one or moredifferent merchandise or services or both associated with the pluralityof vendors, and further involving a communication network accessible tomembers of the public, the process of control for the possibleconsummation of transactions, and comprising the steps of: storing atleast video data and other information relating to the differentmerchandise or services or both for vendors wherein the merchandise orservices or both relate to areas of interest; receiving buyer dataincluding data relating to an area of interest along with identificationdata from a prospective buyer terminal, wherein said buyeridentification data comprises a pre-registered buyer identificationnumber or identification data; utilizing at least certain of the buyerdata to determine an appropriate vendor with related video data andselectively providing and communicating via the communication system thevideo data and other information relating to merchandise or services orboth from stored video data and other information for display at theprospective buyer terminal responsive to merchandise or service data orboth received from the prospective buyer terminal; enabling control ofsaid video data at the prospective buyer terminal; and receiving andstoring data relating to communication of a transaction between theappropriate vendor via the central site and the prospective buyerterminal.
 25. A process of control according to claim 24 furtherincluding a step of representing merchandise or service classificationsor both as classified into one or both of categories and subcategoriesrelating to the areas of interest by codes.
 26. A process of controlaccording to claim 25 wherein the codes comprise numericalrepresentations.
 27. A control system according to claim 25 wherein theareas of interest are indicated via a keyboard provided as part of thebuyer terminal.
 28. A process according to claim 24 wherein said step ofselectively providing and communicating video data includescommunicating with the central site for at least the appropriate vendorfrom the plurality of vendors, through the communication network, inaccordance with said classes of merchandise or service or both asclassified into one or both of categories and subcategories.
 29. Aprocess according to claim 28 wherein said classes of merchandise orservice or both comprise numerical representations.
 30. A processaccording to claim 24 wherein said identification data includes a checkdigit.
 31. A process according to claim 24 including a further step ofstoring said buyer data for the prospective buyer terminal for billingpurposes related to a transaction with the appropriate vendor.
 32. Aprocess according to claim 24 wherein said video data comprise dynamicvideo representations.
 33. A process according to claim 24 wherein saidbuyer data further includes the maximum amount that the prospectivebuyer is willing to pay in a transaction.
 34. A process according toclaim 24 further including a step of coupling the prospective buyerterminal to a live operator terminal.
 35. A process according to claim24 further including a step of printing data relating to a transaction.36. A process according to claim 24, further including a step of:providing an email relating to the transaction.
 37. A process accordingto claim 36, wherein the email contains a number identifying thetransaction.
 38. A process according to claim 24, wherein the utilizingstep determines an appropriate vendor or vendors from the plurality ofvendors, where each vendor is distinct from the other.
 39. A processaccording to claim 24, wherein the communication of a transaction isperformed online when the prospective buyer terminal is in communicationvia the central site.
 40. A process according to claim 24, wherein acommunication of a transaction is performed offline.
 41. A processaccording to claim 24, further including the step of: isolating certainother buyers based upon the prospective buyer's indicated area ofinterest.
 42. A process according to claim 41, further comprising thestep of: forwarding a subsequent email to the other buyers isolated andthe prospective buyer to notify them of a new offering.
 43. A processaccording to claim 42, wherein the new offering is available for alimited period of time.
 44. A process according to claim 43, wherein theprospective buyer or the other buyers subsequently communicate via thecentral site about the new offering.
 45. A process according to claim24, wherein the prospective buyer receives multiple emails via thecentral site relating to the areas of interest.
 46. A control systemaccording to claim 24, wherein the processor is configured to furtherisolate at least certain other prospective buyers based on an indicatedarea of interest and at some point to notify them by email that a videopresentation is available for viewing, and wherein the processorreceives video data and pricing data relating to the video presentationprovided by the appropriate vendor.
 47. A process by which one or morevendors offer one or more different merchandise or services to aplurality of prospective buyers, either via a central site managed by athird party or directly via an automatic response unit (ARU), wherebyprospective buyers can either contact the one or more vendors directly,or interface the central site via buyer terminals with video displaycapability, wherein the prospective buyers communicate with the centralsite via a communication system accessible to members of the public, theprocess for the possible consummation of transactions by the prospectivebuyers, and comprising the steps of: providing a telephone interface forthe prospective buyers to communicate directly with the one or morevendors; providing a computer interface by which the prospective buyerscan communicate with the central site; storing video and other datarelating to the different merchandise and services for vendors at thecentral site, wherein the different merchandise and services areclassified into categories and subcategories; receiving buyer data viathe computer interface wherein the buyer data includes data expressingan area of interest along with identification data from a prospectivebuyer terminal, wherein the buyer identification data identifies theprospective buyer terminal to the central site; utilizing at leastcertain of the buyer data to determine an appropriate vendor with videodata related to the area of interest expressed via the buyer terminal;selectively providing and communicating via the communication system,the video data related to the area of interest expressed via the buyerterminal and other data for display at the prospective buyer terminal;enabling control of said video data at said buyer terminals; receivingand storing data relating to communication of a transaction between theappropriate vendor and the prospective buyer terminal, via the centralsite; and transmitting an email relating to the communication of thetransaction via the central site to the buyer terminal.
 48. A process ofcontrol according to claim 47 further including a step of representingmerchandise or service classifications or both as relating to the areaof interest by codes.
 49. A control system according to claim 47 whereinthe areas of interest are indicated via a keyboard provided as part ofthe buyer terminal.
 50. A process of control according to claim 48wherein the codes comprise numerical representations.
 51. A processaccording to claim 48 wherein the step of selectively providing andcommunicating video data includes communicating with a vendor throughthe communication system in accordance with the classes of merchandiseor service or both.
 52. A process according to claim 51 wherein theclasses of merchandise or service or both comprise numericalrepresentations.
 53. A control system according to claim 47 wherein theareas of interest are indicated via a keyboard provided as part of thebuyer terminal.
 54. A process according to claim 47 wherein theidentification data includes a check digit.
 55. A process according toclaim 47 including a further step of storing the buyer identificationdata for billing purposes related to a transaction.
 56. A processaccording to claim 47 wherein the video data comprise dynamic videorepresentations.
 57. A process according to claim 47 wherein the buyerdata further includes the maximum amount that the prospective buyer iswilling to pay in a transaction.
 58. A process according to claim 47further including a step of coupling the prospective buyer terminal to alive operator terminal.
 59. A process according to claim 47 furtherincluding a step of printing data relating to a transaction.
 60. Acontrol system according to claim 47, wherein the processor isconfigured to further isolate at least certain other prospective buyersbased on an indicated area of interest and at some point to notify themby email that a video presentation is available for viewing, and whereinthe processor receives video data and pricing data relating to the videopresentation provided by the appropriate vendor.
 61. A process accordingto claim 47, further comprising the step of: forwarding a subsequentemail to at least certain other prospective buyers isolated based on anindicated area of interest to notify them of a new offering.
 62. Aprocess according to claim 61, wherein the new offering is available fora limited period of time.
 63. A process according to claim 62, whereinthe buyer subsequently communicates about the new offering includinghigh resolution still video data via the central site.
 64. A processaccording to claim 63, wherein a subsequent communication includes videodata and text data.
 65. A process according to claim 47, wherein thearea of interest expresses the merchandise or service that theprospective buyer desires.
 66. A process according to claim 47, whereinthe area of interest defines a product.
 67. A control system accordingto claim 1, configured to facilitate access by the buyers to one or moreof various different vendors under control of one or more multiplecoordinated central control stations while the buyers are interfaced.68. A process of control according to claim 24, configured to facilitateaccess by the buyers to one or more of various different vendors undercontrol of one or more multiple coordinated central control stationswhile the buyers are interfaced.
 69. A process of control according toclaim 47, configured to facilitate access by the buyers to one or moreof various different vendors under control of one or more multiplecoordinated central control stations while the buyers are interfaced.70. A process by which a central control site offers merchandise andservices for a plurality of vendors to prospective buyers at a pluralityof terminals, the terminals having video display capability, and furtherinvolving a communication network accessible to the prospective buyersfor accessing the central control site, and comprising the steps of:providing stored video data and other data relating to the merchandiseor services for vendors at one or more memories associated with thecentral control site, wherein the merchandise or services relate todifferent categories and subcategories classifying the merchandise andservices; registering the prospective buyers with the central controlsite; receiving buyer requests via the central control site for one ormore of the merchandise or services; utilizing the buyer requests todetermine appropriate merchandise or services from any one or more ofthe plurality of vendors and displaying video relating to theappropriate merchandise or services at the terminals for the prospectivebuyers; and providing special offerings of certain of the merchandise orservices for the plurality of the vendors, with an indication of pricingdata, the special offerings provided to the prospective buyers for alimited period of time by one or more emails, wherein the prospectivebuyers subsequently communicate about the special offerings via thecentral site, the special offerings including both high resolution videoand text data.
 71. A process according to claim 70, wherein the centralcontrol site comprises one or more multiple coordinated central controlstations.
 72. A process according to claim 70, wherein the centralcontrol site is managed by a third party.
 73. A process according toclaim 70, wherein the prospective buyers can share and manipulate thevideo from remote locations.
 74. A process according to claim 70,wherein the central control site maintains a list of prospective buyerswith respect to previously indicated areas of interest with respect tothe special offerings for further communication.